NEW YORK (June 18, 2013) – The MLS Disciplinary Committee has suspended and fined the following players and coach based on their actions in Week 16:

Hendry Thomas (Colorado Rapids defender) – Suspended one game for a reckless challenge that endangered the safety of his opponent, San Jose Earthquakes defender Steven Beitashour, in first-half stoppage time of their June 15 game (VIDEO). Thomas will serve his suspension Wednesday, June 19 when Colorado travels to play the Chicago Fire.

Oscar Pareja (Colorado Rapids Head Coach) In the 49th minute against San Jose, Pareja left his technical area and entered the field of play, which per League policy results in an automatic one game suspension. (VIDEO). Pareja will not be permitted on the sideline or the locker room while serving his suspension during the Rapids game Wednesday in Chicago.

Jair Benitez (FC Dallas defender) – Suspended one game for his head butt against Portland Timbers forward Frédéric Piquionne in the 40th minute of their June 15 game (VIDEO). Benitez will serve his suspension Saturday, June 22 when FC Dallas hosts Sporting Kansas City.

Kekuta Manneh (Vancouver Whitecaps FC forward) – Suspended one game for a reckless challenge against New England Revolution goalkeeper Bobby Shuttleworth in the 75th minute of their June 15 game (VIDEO). Manneh received a yellow card on the play, and the Committee unanimously considered the challenge to be an unequivocal red card offense that endangered the safety of his opponent. Manneh will serve his suspension Wednesday, June 19 when Vancouver hosts Chivas USA.